A Principal’s Journey: Commitment to Education in Phelps County

Melissa Wright writes for the Missouri Independent, a nonpartisan, nonprofit news organization focused on state government, politics, and policy.

Melissa Wright, who has devoted 30 years to education, technically qualifies for retirement with full benefits. Instead of enjoying her time with leisure pursuits, she is content working from her office as an elementary school principal in Phelps County for a 31st year.

Her small school in Newburg is making significant strides through a program expanding throughout Missouri. This success fuels her desire to continue contributing to her school’s achievements despite her eligibility for retirement.